Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that orthopedic surgeons use to diagnose and treat joint problems. The term “arthroscopy” comes from two Greek words: “arthro” (joint) and “skopein” (to look), meaning “to look within the joint.” During the procedure, a surgeon inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the joint through a small incision. This provides a clear view of the inside of the joint, allowing the surgeon to assess and address various issues without the need for large incisions.

Common Applications of Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is commonly performed on joints such as the knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, hip, and wrist. It is used to diagnose and treat a variety of joint conditions, including:

• Knee Arthroscopy: Used to address issues like meniscal tears, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, and cartilage damage.
• Shoulder Arthroscopy: Employed to treat rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement syndrome, and labral tears.
• Elbow Arthroscopy: Utilized for conditions such as tennis elbow, removal of loose bodies, and arthritis.
• Ankle Arthroscopy: Helps in diagnosing and treating problems like ligament injuries, impingement syndromes, and arthritis.
• Hip Arthroscopy: Addresses issues like femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral tears, and cartilage damage.

Benefits of Arthroscopy

Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopy offers several advantages:

• Smaller Incisions: Leads to reduced scarring and less postoperative pain.
• Shorter Recovery Time: Patients often experience quicker rehabilitation and return to daily activities.
• Lower Risk of Infection: Minimally invasive techniques reduce exposure and potential complications.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from arthroscopy varies depending on the joint involved and the specific procedure performed. Generally, patients can expect:

• Outpatient Procedure: Many arthroscopic surgeries are done on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
• Rehabilitation Exercises: Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and mobility.
• Gradual Return to Activities: Most individuals can resume normal activities within a few weeks, though high-impact sports may require a longer recovery period.

At FixBones, our experienced orthopedic surgeons specialize in arthroscopic procedures, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. If you’re experiencing joint pain or mobility issues, contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how arthroscopy can help you regain your quality of life.